Midland manufacturer Parker Hannifin is rallying behind British troops abroad – after helping develop an armoured vehicle that could play a critical role in saving lives in war-torn areas across the world.
Designed and developed in the UK, the Warwick firm says the Ranger will provide at least three times the protection available from other vehicles currently being used by the Ministry of Defence, withstanding explosive devices, bombs and mines.
Working in collaboration with Dorset-based company Universal Engineering, Parker manufactured the vehicle’s hydraulic units including the engine cooling system fan units.
Work carried out also included the rear ramp actuation mechanism, rear steering assembly, emergency ramp opening and the auxiliary power unit fans, which provide the power if the main engine fails.
The 19-tonne Ranger was completely designed, tested and built in less than a year.
Martin Lattimer, Parker Hannifin’s business development manager, said: “As one of the world’s leading specialists in motion and control technologies, and especially in the field of hydraulics, we have a long track record of working with defence contractors and the Ministry of Defence, and of developing innovative solutions.
“Our work on Ranger is part of this tradition and the success of the project to date is a reflection of the skills, experience and knowledge of our team of designers, engineers and managers in Warwick.”
The Ranger differs from conventional armoured vehicles as it has no chassis and features an armour-protected capsule, to which automotive elements are fitted.
The vehicle has been undergoing extensive military training since its launch and could be ready for full-scale production within six months.
